Why Is Backflow Testing Important?

Questions and Answers on Backflow

Backflow is something that happens in every home and building that has a running water connection. Keeping up with backflow and making sure that a plumbing system is functioning correctly and efficiently can be done by hiring the expertise of certified plumbers. This action of testing the backflow and making sure it performs correctly should be done every 12 months, or at least once a year.

The most common reason for backflow testing is safety concerns over possibly contaminated drinking and bathing water. Backflow testing ensures that the backflow prevention devices are working correctly to stop cross-contamination of water.

The Reasons for Backflow

Backflow is caused when water or sewage no longer flows the way it should. An overflow of rain, poor and low pressure, siphonage, and backpressure. Backpressure occurs when the drop in water pressure happens to a clean water line allowing for the influx of non-potable water or contaminants. Many daily situations can occur that allow for pressure loss and increase the probability of backflow, such as pump failures, system maintenance, line breaks, and backward siphoning.

There are many detrimental side effects from contaminated water and broken or bad backflow protection devices. Common bacteria that contaminate water supplies due to backflow are salmonella, E. Coli, and hepatitis. Every homeowner should be aware of backflow and the importance of having it checked by qualified technicians.

The Importance Behind Having Certified Backflow Testing

Backflow testing is of extreme importance and should be done every single year. If something is broken or not working correctly, it will need to be replaced or repaired as soon as possible. The water coming into a home should be clean, clear drinking water. Since not all backflow devices are the same for each home or building, it is important to call upon a qualified backflow technician.

Here are some signs that a home needs certified backflow testing and more than likely immediate repairs:

Bad tasting water: If the water coming from the faucet is undrinkable due to the taste, or smells bad like sulfur, it is time to call a trusted plumber.
Slow or interrupted water flow: When turning on the faucet, if the water is coming at a low rate or in spurts, something is not right and needs to be fixed.
Dirty colored water: Discolored, brown, reddish, yellow, and pink-tinged water or water with visible particles of sediment and rust is not normal.

Utilizing Qualified Plumbers for Backflow Testing and Certification

Using professionals and partnering with a trusted company is an important step in caring for a home and family. The idea that something so small like a singular valve or system of valves could be the one thing protecting a homeowner from sickness and disease should be frightening. However, calling on the plumbers who go through the proper training, courses, and education will deliver the peace-of-mind results sought out by everyone.

It is important to involve certified backflow testers if there are any issues. Get key information on maintaining proper upkeep, and the signs to look out for can be provided by qualified and professional certified backflow testers.

About Rooter MD Plumbing LLC

Rooter MD Plumbing LLC has been serving the Southeast Michigan area since 1981. With reliable work and fast, accurate solutions tailored for each job, they are a company that can be counted on. Call Rooter MD Plumbing & Heating today for all plumbing services needed in the Livonia, MI area!